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Definition of Erectile Dysfunction and Impotence


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Question

What is the difference between erectile dysfunction and impotence?

Answer

Impotence is an old-fashioned, non-specific and medically improper term that is no longer used to describe male sexual problems.

The current terminology describing difficulty achieving and/or maintaining an erection is "erectile dysfunction.

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Related questions

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  • My husband of 38 years and I were having sex when we noticed for the first time that his penis was twisted. He's always had a normal erection. We were wondering if this should be checked? He was also just diagnosed with melanoma on his ear.

  • My partner has begun to get up at night to urinate. He never did this before. He doesn't have symptoms of infection, like burning or pain. Should he be worried?

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  • Since I went through menopause, I am getting more UTIs. Is this normal? Why does it happen?

  • I had a partial hysterectomy at 29. Now, at 43, I have bladder control problems with coughing or sneezing, and not making it to the restroom. This is not a small amount, even if I have recently gone. Is this related to the hysterectomy?

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